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Welcome to Reviews inside tv, the channel where we bring you the most honest and in-depth product reviews to help you make informed decisions. Today, we’re taking a look at the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR, an innovative audio mixer and controller designed for content creators, streamers, and podcasters. Whether you’re mixing live audio, managing your stream, or controlling your lighting, this device aims to bring it all into one accessible and customizable space. So, let’s dive into the details and see what this tool has to offer.
The Elgato Stream Deck + XLR combines tactile controls and visual feedback to streamline the audio and content creation experience. This device integrates an XLR microphone input to give you studio-quality sound right at your fingertips. Up front, the customizable LCD keys, touch strip, and dials allow you to control not just audio, but video, lighting, and more—making it a versatile tool for both seasoned professionals and beginners alike. It also includes 75 dB of gain to power dynamic microphones, and 48 V phantom power to bring condenser mics to life. Plus, with a solid selection of plugins, you can integrate it with popular platforms like OBS, Twitch, YouTube, Discord, and many more.
Setting up the Stream Deck + XLR is intuitive. You just plug in your XLR mic and start customizing the controls. The device is compatible with both PC and Mac, and using it feels incredibly responsive. The tactile feedback from the buttons and dials makes it easy to know exactly when your command has been executed. And, for those who like to keep their setup clean and minimal, the sleek design of the Stream Deck looks great in any workspace. On the downside, while it’s easy to use right out of the box, the setup can get overwhelming for beginners who may not be familiar with the software at first. The learning curve could be steep if you’re not already accustomed to audio mixing software or controlling multiple devices at once.
When it comes to performance, the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR certainly delivers. The mic input is crystal-clear, and the ability to adjust gain and phantom power on the fly gives you a lot of flexibility. You’ll notice the quality difference if you’ve been using a regular USB microphone. But with all this functionality, it’s easy to get carried away—there are so many settings, plugins, and customizations that it might take some time to fully master every feature. It’s definitely a powerful tool, but you’ll need to invest a little time to get the most out of it.
Now, let’s break down the pros and cons. On the plus side, the Stream Deck + XLR is built solidly and looks and feels premium. The dials and buttons provide excellent tactile feedback, making it easy to navigate, and the wide range of plugins and third-party integrations are a huge plus. The 75 dB gain and 48 V phantom power are top-tier features for anyone using a professional mic. On the flip side, the device can feel a bit overwhelming for new users who might not be as tech-savvy. Additionally, while the device excels in customization, some users might find that it lacks the depth of audio features found in standalone mixers.
In terms of value for money, the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR sits in the mid-to-high range for audio equipment. For content creators who need a multifunctional control hub that also integrates seamlessly with their streaming setup, this device offers excellent value. But if you’re just looking for a simple, basic audio mixer, you might want to look elsewhere, as the Stream Deck + XLR is packed with features that might go unused if you’re only after basic controls.
When comparing the Stream Deck + XLR to similar products, the closest competitor would be the GoXLR. Both devices aim to elevate your audio and streaming experience, but while the GoXLR is a more dedicated audio mixer, the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR offers more flexibility, thanks to its customizable buttons and integration with Elgato’s other products. It’s a more versatile device that works well across a variety of setups, not just audio, but lighting, video, and more.
As for build quality, Elgato hasn’t cut any corners here. The Stream Deck + XLR feels solid and durable, and the dials feel premium under your fingers. There’s no cheap plastic here, which adds to the overall quality impression. It’s built to last, and with regular updates to the software and plugins, you’ll continue to see improvements in the user experience over time.
Regarding customer support, Elgato has built a strong reputation for its customer service. They offer timely responses to any issues, and the knowledge base is quite comprehensive for troubleshooting. Plus, the regular updates and new plugins show their commitment to improving the product, which is always a good sign for long-term satisfaction.
If you’re looking for alternatives, the GoXLR is one worth mentioning. It’s a more focused audio mixer but lacks the customizable controls and additional features that the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR brings to the table. If you’re okay with the learning curve, the Elgato device might be the better option for its versatility and all-in-one solution.
In conclusion, the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR is a powerhouse for content creators, streamers, and podcasters. It’s an extremely versatile tool that offers excellent audio control, but it’s not without its learning curve. If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution that helps streamline your streaming, mixing, and controlling all from one device, this might be the right choice for you. However, if you’re new to this type of gear or only need basic controls, there might be simpler alternatives worth considering.
Thanks for watching! If you’re interested in picking up the Elgato Stream Deck + XLR, you can find the link in the comments box. And if you’ve already used it, feel free to drop your thoughts or questions below—we’d love to hear from you! Goodbye till next time, and remember, with Reviews inside tv, we’re always here to help you make the right choices for your tech setup!
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